Celebrating Modern Jewish Living Through Food, Tradition, and Family


The Backstory: First, I promise that this is a true story. When I asked my mother for her chicken soup recipe, she said: “I’ll have to measure and get back to you.” I said, “How is that possible? You’ve been making this soup for[…]-READ-MORE>

Chocolate fondue just screams romance, fun, or party time! It’s easy to make and so much fun to eat. Dip fruit, pound cake, marshmallows, or even macaroons!
The Backstory: Chocolate fondue is one of the fanciest yet easiest de[…]-READ-MORE>

This recipe for broccoli rabe with garlic takes minutes to make. It’s fragrant, tender and perfect with any main course.
The Backstory: I can’t say enough about this delicious recipe for broccoli rabe with garlic. Not only is i[…]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: Whenever I make this side dish, I am reminded of the Jewish holidays. In the early years of my life, my mom always had sweet potatoes as a side dish for every special occasion. Truth be told, the sweet potatoes mo[…]-READ-MORE>

Eggplant Dip is a savory, tomato-y, slighty sweet spread that’s perfect with crusty bread, crackers, or as a dip for veggies. A perfect make-ahead dish.
The Backstory: Eggplant dip is one of my favorite, go-to appetizers when […]-READ-MORE>

This classic brisket is my-go holiday brisket for just about every holiday gathering. The meat is fork tender (it literally shreds) and the sauce is tangy, savory and slightly sweet.
The Backstory: A few fiances ago (that soun[…]-READ-MORE>

Invite your friends over for this delicious aromatic cake and a steaming cup of coffee.
The Backstory: Gloria and I met in 1986. We were each on a vacation with our husbands in the Dominican Republic. I must write about the […]-READ-MORE>

Smoked salmon and caviar toasts are a delectable, elegant appetizer that will wow your guests and are easy to make. What more could you ask for?
The Backstory: The first time I had caviar was at famed The Russian Tea Room in t[…]-READ-MORE>

Our classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is the only carrot cake recipe you’ll ever need. It’s decadent, moist and packed with raisins, nuts, and flavor in every single bite.
The Backstory: Let’s be honest: classic c[…]-READ-MORE>

Rich, decadent, and a totally indulgent dessert when you really want to go all out.
The Backstory: Bread pudding is a rich, hearty, decadent dessert that is thought to be borne out of the age old question of what to do with le[…]-READ-MORE>

Giant popovers deliver a true wow factor to a holiday table. They’re huge golden rolls that are flaky, light, and with a perfect touch of chewiness.
The Backstory: I can find no trace of anything whatsoever that links cultural […]-READ-MORE>

Sweet fresh fruit kebabs and a creamy dip make for a fun, fresh and delicious party appetizer.
The Backstory: Fruit plates, fruit platters and fruit bowls have come a long, long way since our grandmothers scooped out half a wa[…]-READ-MORE>